mpv

mpv is a free, open source and cross-platform media player developed by a community of volunteers. It is known for a minimalist interface: there is no classic window with menus, only a small controller on top of the video, and most settings are changed through a configuration file or the command line. mpv is a project without a company, and the website and source code are maintained by its contributors.

Features

• Hardware decoding on most platforms, which can be switched on when needed.
• High-quality video output with support for HDR, upscaling and common formats such as H.264, H.265 and AV1.
• Scripting in several languages, so the player can be automated or extended.
• Playback of local files, discs and network streams, including subtitles in many formats.
• Versions for Windows, Linux, BSD and macOS, with third-party front ends available.

Model and limits

mpv is free. It suits users who like keyboard control and configuration files, and it is the engine behind several other players. Anyone who expects a graphical menu, media library or a ready-made music collection view will find VLC or Kodi easier to start with.